Deadline looms for 3rd Ward alderman applications in St. Charles

ST. CHARLES – Four people have submitted applications this week to fill the 3rd Ward alderman seat Ray Rogina vacated when he was sworn in as mayor on Monday, according to the St. Charles Mayor's Office.

The city is not releasing the applicants' names at this time, administrative assistant Tina Nilles said Friday afternoon, adding that information likely will be released once the deadline has passed.

Residents of the 3rd Ward have until 4:30 p.m. May 17 to submit a letter of interest and resume for consideration.

"This vacancy creates a genuine opportunity for a resident of the 3rd Ward to become actively engaged in their local government," Rogina said in a news release. "Serving on the City Council is a great way to give back to your community and share your vision for St. Charles."

Rogina has said an open and transparent process involving aldermen and City Administrator Brian Townsend will be used to select the person to fill the term, which expires in 2015.

According to a city news release, Rogina will select a sub-committee of aldermen to review applicants' credentials and to narrow the candidate pool to three. The finalists will be interviewed by the entire City Council.

In accordance with state law, candidates must meet the following criteria:

• Be a qualified elector of the municipality.

• Have lived in the municipality at least one year next preceding the election or appointment.

• Not be in arrears in the payment of a tax or other indebtedness due to the municipality or been convicted in any court of any infamous crime, bribery, perjury or other felony.

• Resident in the ward that the person seeks to represent at least one year next preceding the election or appointment.

Applications may mailed to Mayor Raymond P. Rogina, 2 E. Main St., St. Charles, IL 60174; submitted in person; or emailed to mayor@stcharlesil.gov.